PETITION IN PROTEST

Filing a Valid Protest Petition

In accordance with the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, an amendment to a zoning ordinance by a city is subject to a protest petition which, if filed, shall require a 2/3 vote of the legislative body for approval. A protest petition must:

(1)  Be signed by the owner(s) of 20% or more of the area of land included in the proposed change or by the owner(s) of 20% or more of the area of land included within an area extending outward 100 feet from any point on the boundary of the land included in the proposed change, excluding publicly owned land.

(2)  Be submitted to the City Clerk’s office at or before 12:00 p.m. on the date the amendment to the zoning ordinance is scheduled for final legislative action.

Statement of Opposition:

I, the undersigned citizen of Harbor Springs, Michigan, represent I am the owner of the real property legally described below and that, as such property owner, respectfully protest the enactment of the proposed Harbor Springs 2024 Draft Zoning Code. My reason(s) for protest include a fear this zoning overhaul will result in the loss of Harbor Springs’ local character due to undesired increase in density, overdevelopment, and failure to protect the unique features fundamental to our community. Residents have expressed the draft’s developmental nature does not align with the values of our community and rushing to implement such amidst significant opposition reflects a disconnect between city officials and those they were elected to serve. Despite assurance of the opportunity to adequately contribute to a solution, I consistently question the intentions of the elected as well as the legitimacy and reliability of the governmental processes involved. At this time, legislative action is planned for May 6th.